Malta produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Greece 3-2 in their opening match of the 2026 EuroHockey Championship II Qualifiers in Helsinki, Finland.

Trailing by two goals entering the final quarter, the Maltese side showed tremendous resilience to score three unanswered goals and claim a memorable victory that puts them in a strong position in Pool B.

The opening quarter was a cagey affair, with both teams cancelling each other out and neither goalkeeper seriously tested as the match remained goalless.

Greece broke the deadlock in the third quarter through Paris Welzel, who capitalised on a defensive lapse before doubling his tally moments later to give his side what appeared to be a comfortable 2-0 advantage.

Rather than letting their heads drop, Malta responded with determination.

Captain Thomas Degiovanni sparked the fightback by converting a penalty corner to reduce the deficit before repeating the feat in the final quarter, expertly dispatching another penalty corner to restore parity at 2-2.

With the momentum firmly on Malta’s side, the decisive moment arrived just three minutes from time.

Redeemer Rapinett launched a swift attacking move before picking out Joe Ellul-Turner, who unleashed a powerful finish to complete a stunning turnaround and secure all three points for Malta.

It was a spirited display from the Maltese team, who showed outstanding character and belief to recover from a two-goal deficit and begin their European campaign on a winning note.

Malta will now turn their attention to their second Pool B fixture, where they face hosts Finland later today, looking to build on an impressive opening-day performance.

Malta squad: Marvin Grixti, Shawn Dimech, Xandru Mifsud Bonnici Weiss, Thomas Degiovanni (captain), Nicolai Runza, Redeemer Rapinett, Christ Agius, Keith Calleja, Joe Ellul-Turner, Alexander Kirton and Luca Fsadni.

Substitutes: Karl Chircop, Charlo Sammut, Nathan Pace Gasan, Neil Spiteri, Lukas Brincat, Kieran Borg and Aaron Spiteri.